Paper short abstract:

This paper assesses the Multinational Joint Task Force`s counter-insurgency operations against Boko-Haram insurgency in Nigeria`s northeast region and the Lake Chad Basin.

Paper long abstract:

The escalation of Boko Haram uprisings from Nigeria`s northeast region to Cameroon, Chad, and the Niger Republic in 2009 led to the revival of the Multinational Joint Task Force in 2015, aimed at curbing the insurgents` threats in Nigeria`s northeast region and Lake Chad basin. The logic behind the resuscitation of the MNTF was to seek the military collaboration of the countries on the frontlines of the war, which comprised Nigeria, Cameroun, Niger, Chad, and the Benin Republic in accordance with the Africa Union`s collective security mandate and African Peace and Security Architecture meant to combat trans-border security threats. The formation of the MNJTF raises some pertinent questions: What successes has its intervention achieved in combating Boko Haram onslaughts in Nigeria`s northeast region and Lake Chad Basin? What are the challenges of the multinational security arrangement? What is the prospect of such an initiative in the war against cross-border security challenges in the West Africa sub-region and other parts of Africa? This paper contends that the MNTF`s approach is an effective counter-insurgency strategy that has been successful in crushing Boko Haram insurgents and restoring peace in the region, despite pockets of attacks that still exist. Data was collected from oral interviews with security personnel at the war front. Secondary data comprised a close reading of relevant literature, including media sources. This paper contributes to the discourse on the present, past, and future of the Boko Haram insurgency and its implications for national and sub-regional security.